The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists of a speed limit change on US 165/US 71 from north MacArthur Drive to Kingsville in Rapides Parish.

The speed limit along this section of roadway will be increased from 50 mph to 60 mph for the entire stretch from Alexandria to Pineville, beginning on Thursday, September 13, 2018. The signage change for the increase will be weather dependent.

Since the completion of the 4-laning of US 71/US 165 in this area last year, traffic operations have been monitored. Speed studies were conducted that produced results favoring the increase of the posted speed limit.

It’s been proven that posted speed limits that align with the 85th percentile of drivers create safer roadways and allow for a more efficient flow of traffic along a corridor.

DOTD is working with local law enforcement agencies as this change goes into effect, and advises motorists to be aware of the increase and drive with caution.

Call 511 or visit www.511la.org for additional information on road closures and other important notifications. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MYDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and Twitter pages.